Tsumeb
Despite the recurrent drought that has adversely affected maize and other crops it turns out not everyone is as severely affected by the El Niño-induced drought.
The little rain that poured down early this year was sufficient to see the Tsumeb community farm project delivering exceptional produce. The project, which started on a two hectare piece of land situated at Ondundu just few kilometres outside Tsumeb, was able to produce over 50 bags of maize, marking its first ever harvest.
More is expected to still be harvested. The harvested maize is believed to have been ordered already by individuals in the community, with some clients coming from as far afield as Oshikango to the community project that is voluntarily maintained by seven elderly women and men.
Apart from maize, crops such sorghum, watermelons, pumpkins and beans may also soon be harvested and sold to the community. What is astounding is that the crops were cultivated in mid-February this year.
Tsumeb Constituency Councillor Lebbius Tobias was at the first harvest and said the project is still in its infancy, but they would assess its viability as a tool in the fight against poverty.
“Now we’ve seen the potential of what we can do in future and our plan is to expand the project. Thus we’re looking to the municipality to offer another hectare or two, so that we can start producing on larger scale,” Tobias said.
Adding that the project is of benefit to the local community, as it will be used to feed the needy and impoverished people, as well sell to residents at a low price in order for them to resell and make extra income.
“One bag of maize will be sold at N$150, which could then be resold for N$550. This will be beneficial to the community as they will be able to generate more and put bread on the table,” Tobias suggested.
He further explained that the project is not for employment purposes, a but voluntary one where community members can work together to help themselves, as at the end of the harvest they get a portion of the produce.
“We appreciate the efforts of the ministry of agriculture in drilling a borehole and installing tanks at the project farm. This will enable us to expand and cultivate all year round, as we have water readily available. With this we intend cultivating all types of crops and vegetables season after season,” Tobias said.
He suggested that once a functioning irrigation system is installed, the project could become fresh produce hub in the area.